HRT, Sauber, play down driver lineup rumours

The HRT and Sauber teams have moved to play down speculation that suggests their driver lineups may soon change.

In recent days, reports have said Bruno Senna might be replaced at the new Spanish team HRT by the higher-paying Japanese reserve driver Sakon Yamamoto.

And persistent speculation has dogged Sauber’s Pedro de la Rosa this year, with the latest reports saying Italian GP2 driver Luca Filippi could become Kamui Kobayashi’s new teammate.

Both teams released interviews to the media on Thursday.

HRT’s interview quoted team boss Colin Kolles as suggesting he is happy with both Senna and his fellow rookie teammate Karun Chandhok.

“Karun and Bruno are very talented young drivers which developed well in the first races,” he said.

“I am confident and looking forward Bruno and Karun doing a good job in the coming races which will improve the overall performance of the team,” added Kolles.

He also said both Yamamoto and Christian Klien “did a good job” as they recently tested on Friday morning practice sessions.

Meanwhile, Sauber’s official interview was with Japanese rookie Kobayashi, and one question asked if he is enjoying working alongside the veteran de la Rosa.

“Pedro is a very nice guy, and with all his experience he is a really good teammate for me,” he answered.

“I’m the rookie, he knows everything and he shares it with me,” added the 23-year-old.

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